LIGHTNOVELWORLD Chapter 152: Bianka's Conviction
Pale metal walls, heavy blast doors, and the hum of machinery were the only sounds that penetrated the room.
State-of-the-art medical equipment monitored the unconscious boy on the bed, automated systems meticulously collecting data.
At first glance, the room seemed designed solely for his recovery. But a closer look revealed its true nature: a high-security prison cell, buried a thousand meters underground.
Such a fortress should have been heavily guarded, yet the vast complex was eerily silent. There were no guards, only the occasional electronic chime indicating the base's active systems.
Rustle…
The only sound was the turning of pages. The precise, rhythmic motion suggested a highly disciplined reader.
"Decided to wake up?" The girl didn't even look up from her book, her golden hair shifting as she turned a page. She'd already sensed his awakening.
"Being in a hospital bed rather than on a dissection table is definitely preferable," Ren observed, looking at Durandal. "But one doesn't exactly sleep soundly with such powerful company."
Bianka, holding a detective novel, followed the words with her eyes, a small smile playing on her lips. The book seemed to amuse her.
Her long, shapely legs, extending from beneath her armor skirt, were crossed elegantly. It was hard to imagine such delicate limbs possessing the power to shatter stars.
Poised and graceful. If not for her affiliation, Bianka would have been captivating, every movement drawing the eye. She embodied everything beautiful, radiating a warmth like the sun.
But that warmth was too intense, too bright, threatening to ignite the Puppet. Ren's fate was intertwined with the shadows, with the quiet strength that bloomed in darkness.
Bianka sat upright, her posture perfect even in this relaxed setting. She seemed engrossed in the book, but upon reaching the end of the page, she closed it without hesitation, turning her attention to Ren.
"I'm hardly 'powerful,' and Schicksal isn't some heartless machine. We study the Herrschers to better combat the Honkai. You're here for containment, to prevent further destruction."
Ren nodded, feigning agreement, a mocking smile playing on his lips. "I'm curious, then, Bianka-san. What are your thoughts on the Overseer resurrecting the Herrscher of the Void a few months ago, causing a global disaster that killed millions?"
Before she could answer, he continued, "Was that also part of combating the Honkai? I believe, with your strength, you could have stopped him. Does that mean you supported his plan, that those millions were acceptable sacrifices?"
It was a pointed question, the reason for his dislike of Durandal. She had the power to prevent these tragedies, yet she allowed Otto to continue.
He looked into her azure eyes, searching for a flicker of doubt or regret. But there was none. Her resolve was unwavering.
She replied calmly, "I didn't agree with Overseer Otto's plan, and I don't believe those sacrifices were insignificant. I stand with Schicksal because without it, there would be no one to protect the billions on this planet from the Honkai."
"There is no absolute right or wrong, good or evil, in this world. There is only duty. And I am merely fulfilling mine."
Ren clapped slowly, almost impressed.
"Duty. Was the tragedy of K423 part of your duty? Were those millions necessary sacrifices for your mission? Bianka Astagina, you haven't answered my question. There may not be absolute right and wrong in this world, but to avoid even acknowledging it… What *is* your duty? Is it just a slogan, an excuse to justify your actions?"
"Four months ago, during that catastrophe, I awakened as a Herrscher. I watched countless people die around me. Their pain, their despair, still echo in my ears. Their anger, their hatred, churn within me."
"Why did this happen? I hoped to find answers from you, but you're not who I'm looking for."
"Durandal, you are a warrior who protects the world, not its savior."
A flicker of something crossed Bianka's eyes. She couldn't deny his words, but she couldn't accept them either. It challenged her beliefs, the foundation of her unwavering resolve.
She couldn't waver. But Bianka was a simple soldier, not a manipulator like Otto. So, she remained silent.
As the tension thickened, a new voice spoke.
"Ren-san, please don't trouble our young Valkyrie. She fights for humanity. Judging her is not your place." The voice came from Durandal's communicator, then appeared as a projected image. The blond man looked at Ren, a deep darkness reflected in both their eyes.
"And you are…?" Ren quickly schooled his features, feigning ignorance.
"..." Otto was momentarily taken aback. To debate with Durandal but claim ignorance of Schicksal? Was it possible?
Adjusting his cravat, Otto smiled. "Otto Apocalypse, current Overseer of Schicksal, and the one responsible for the recent catastrophe. Perhaps I am who you seek."
But now that Otto had appeared, Ren avoided the topic of the Honkai.
He could manipulate emotions, exploit vulnerabilities. He could question Durandal from a victim's perspective, but that wouldn't work with Otto. It was like questioning ink for being dark. A Herrscher of a Legion adapted their approach.
He suppressed his anger, glancing at Durandal. "Are you sure he's the Overseer? He looks more like a clown. Perhaps some green hair would suit him better."
Even Durandal, who usually didn't react to Ren's stares, looked surprised. Otto's smile faded.
His fists clenched.